European Journal of Biotechnology and Bioscience

Authors
Ogunka-Nnoka CU, Onwumere BT, Igwe FU

Abstract
The presentrnresearch was designed to evaluate the possible protective potentials of Maeasobotryarnbarteri against acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity in wistar albino rats.rnA standard hepato-protective reference drug (ascorbic acid) was used to comparernwith the extract. Serum liver maker-enzymes (AST, ALT and ALP), otherrnbiochemicals (Total Protein, Albumin, Bilirubin and Conjugated Bilirubin) andrnhistopathological analysis were used to assess the extent of liver damage. Twentyrnfour matured rats were divided into six groups of four rats each. A suspensionrnof acetaminophen at 750mg/kg body weight was administered once every 72 hoursrnto induce hepatotoxicity in groups 2 to 6, while group 1 served as control.rnThere was significant (p≤0.05) elevation in serum enzyme activities (ASTrnALT ALP), serum total bilirubin and conjugated bilirubin, and significant (p≤0.05)rndecrease in serum total protein and albumin in the acetaminophen treated groupsrncompared to control. Administration of ascorbic acid (group 3) and extractsrn(groups 4 to 6) modulated the effect of observed abnormalities caused by therninduced acetaminophen. The effect of the extract was dose-dependent andrncomparable to that of the ascorbic acid. Histological study showed thatrndegenerated liver gradually reverted to normal. This study substantiates thernpotential hepatoprotective effect of Maeasobotrya barteri.